Chocolate starts to melt at 86°F which is about the temperature of a warm summer day. So shipping during hot seasons can be a real challenge, but that doesn't mean it's impossible. In this post, we'll guide you through the process of shipping chocolates during summer.
What Happens When Chocolate Is Shipped a Hot Season?
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The high temperatures can cause the chocolate to melt and lose its shape. Even if it doesn’t fully melt, it can bloom, which is when the cocoa butter separates and leaves a whitish coating on the surface. This doesn’t affect the taste, but it definitely impacts the appearance. The texture may also end up turning gritty or chalky.
What Type of Chocolate Can You Ship?
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Some chocolates ship better than others and since you will be shipping during summer, you want to avoid the ones that don't ship well. Dark chocolate is your best option since it has a higher melting point. Milk chocolate and white chocolate are not good options since they contain more milk solids and sugar, which makes them melt faster in warm temperatures. If you really do want to ship milk or white chocolate, consider using a higher cocoa content or mix nuts or fruits, as these will help keep the chocolate more stable.
How to Ship Chocolate During Summer
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Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you send chocolate during summer:
Step 1: Choose Insulated Packaging
Start with an insulated shipping container, like a styrofoam cooler or a box with thermal insulation. The insulation creates a barrier that helps keep the temperature stable inside the box when shipping chocolate. Line the inside with thermal bubble wrap or a foil liner.
Step 2: Wrap Chocolate Properly
Wrap the chocolate in multiple layers of plastic wrap or place it in a sealed, airtight bag. Now place the chocolate into the insulated box. If using multiple chocolate items, separate them with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent sticking or smearing.
Step 3: Prepare Ice Pack
Now place gel cold packs or dry sweat proof ice packs around the chocolate (not directly on it) to keep it cool during transit. Gel packs are effective for short distances, while dry ice packs are better for longer trips or extreme heat. Seal the insulated box with shipping tape.
Step 4: Select a Durable Outer Box
Now, place the insulated chocolate box into a sturdy, corrugated cardboard box. This will be your main outer shipping box with all the details. Make sure it’s large enough but not so large that there is any empty space. Fill any gaps with packing peanuts, crumpled paper, or bubble wrap.
Step 5: Seal the Box
Seal the box with heavy-duty packing tape. Make sure to reinforce all the seams. Use water-activated tape for a more secure seal. Make sure the box is sealed tightly to prevent warm air from entering and cold air from escaping.
Step 6: Label the Package Clearly
Mark the package with “Perishable” and “Keep Refrigerated” labels to alert the carrier to handle it with care. Also, be sure all the addresses and other shipping labels are clearly visible. If you used any cold pack, mention this in the documentation.
Handy Tips and Tricks
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- Ship your package on a Monday or Tuesday to avoid weekend delays. Packages shipped later in the week risk sitting in a hot warehouse over the weekend, increasing the chance of melting. Check the weather forecast along the shipping route to plan for optimal conditions.
- Opt for the fastest shipping methods available, especially overnight or two-day shipping. The less time the chocolate spends in transit, the lower the risk of exposure to high temperatures.
- Consider using a shipping company that is experienced in shipping perishable goods.
- Use a shipping service that provides tracking. Notify the recipient of the expected delivery date and time so they can be ready to receive the package promptly.
- If shipping high-value or irreplaceable chocolate, consider adding shipping insurance to protect against loss or damage during transit.
- Freeze the chocolate for a few hours before for a head start in keeping it cool. Just make sure it’s wrapped properly to avoid any moisture or condensation when it thaws.
- Make sure that the packing supplies you choose are waterproof and smudge proof.
- If possible, arrange for your package to travel at night since it's cooler.
Summary
Now that you know how to ship and pack chocolate, go ahead and try it yourself. Just remember to choose the right chocolate, pack it well with insulation and cold packs, and ship it quickly.
Are you looking to keep your chocolate cool all summer long? Check out Nice Packs dry ice packs. They're perfect for keeping your shipments safe from the heat, ensuring that your chocolate arrives just the way you intended—smooth, solid, and oh-so-delicious.
